Author Archives: Jennifer Kohlhammer
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Siksika Health Services and Partners Expand Pilot Program to Enhance Foot Health and Prevent Diabetic Foot Ulcers Among Siksika Nation Members
Leave a CommentFOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
SIKSIKA NATION, Alberta, June 6, 2023 – Siksika Health Services (SHS), in collaboration with Orpyx® Medical Technologies and GMAK Consulting, is excited to announce the launch of a second pilot program aimed at improving foot health and preventing diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) among Siksika Nation members living with type 2 diabetes.
Zivot Limb Preservation Centre (ZLPC) has joined this initiative for this second pilot program and will provide clinical services. Their expertise and collaboration with SHS will provide invaluable lower-limb educational opportunities for SHS dedicated staff.With the success of the initial pilot program, which involved 35 Siksika members, the partnership is eager to expand its efforts and conduct a comprehensive evaluation of the effectiveness of integrating Orpyx SI® Flex Sensory Insoles and remote patient monitoring (RPM) at scale within the community.
In general, ~25% of people with diabetes will develop a DFU in their lifetime, with 49% DFU recurrence in the first year. During the initial 24-week pilot, only one participant with a long history of recurrent DFUs developed a new wound. The Orpyx SI program allowed for early and timely escalation to the ZLPC for assessment and treatment, effectively mitigating more severe complications. The low DFU occurrence rate during the initial pilot is a positive step in implementing a broader wound and amputation prevention program.
Acknowledging the complexities of managing diabetes, SHS remains committed to equipping Nation members with valuable resources to learn and implement best practices.
“We’re excited by the opportunity, and also the possibility for this to have a meaningful and important impact on our people’s health. It’s important that we have these types of advanced services, that we have partnerships that are like-minded, that have the same vision, and the same purpose as we move forward together.”Dr. Tyler White, CEO, Siksika Health Services
An integral component of the pilot program has been the organization of in-person community gatherings on Siksika Nation, which serve as a platform for providing culturally appropriate support to participants. One participant shared the significance of these gatherings, saying, “It’s a very good program, you learn a lot, and can ask questions about what you’re stuck on, maintaining your health. This program is helping a lot, for me and others I’ve talked to.” With the combined efforts of SHS Home Care, Orpyx, GMAK and the ZLPC, participants benefit from on-the-ground support, advanced data monitoring, and access to expertise in diabetic foot management.
The pilot program is made possible through the generous support of PATHWAYS Indigenous Health Collaborations, a partnership between Boehringer Ingelheim (Canada) Ltd. and Bimaadzwin, who work together to bring about positive change and advancements in Indigenous healthcare.
“I am immensely proud to announce the expansion of our partnership with Siksika Health Services, a collaboration that has already shown promising results in providing supportive remote care and improving foot health within Siksika Nation. Our initial pilot has showcased the tremendous potential for improving the lives of individuals facing the unique challenges of living with diabetes. By joining forces with SHS, we have worked together to gain invaluable insights, enabling us to tailor our solutions even more effectively to the needs of Siksika members. This partnership exemplifies the power of collaborative, human-centered innovation, and we are excited to see where we can take this with the next phase of the program.”
Dr. Breanne Everett, CEO and Founder of Orpyx
Expanding the pilot program will give more community members access to state-of-the-art technology to significantly enhance their well-being. Together, we are dedicated to supporting more communities and First Nations in addressing their healthcare needs and improving access to quality care.
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For more information:
Ryan Running Rabbit
Communications, Siksika Health Services
403-361-0584
Karen Smith
Marketing, Orpyx Medical Technologies
210-823-9604
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Siksika Health Services Staff Contact Information Form
Leave a CommentSiksika Health Services Staff Contact Information
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Today We Honour National MMIWG2S Awareness Day
Leave a CommentNational MMIWG2S Awareness Day, also known as Red Dress Day, which occurs annually on May 5th, honours the thousands of missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, two spirit, and gender diverse people in Canada by encouraging learning and building awareness to end violence against Indigenous women, girls, two spirit, and gender diverse people.
Call to Action 41 of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission Report called on the federal government of Canada to begin an inquiry into the numerous cases of missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls.
The National Inquiry released its Final Report in June 2019 and addressed finding important ways to end the genocide and to transform systemic and society values that have worked to maintain colonial violence (Final Report, volume 1B, p. 168).
Our community of Siksika has much work to do in addressing the violence committed upon our people and to develop a plan that will include the awareness of our society values. Strengthening our community in healing from our past, changing our ways today and moving forward to a healthy atmosphere are goals we all must take on. Let us take a stand collectively to make a change in our community for the sake of our people’s safety and wellness. Our youth and the unborn deserve a chance to live in a healthy world to practice our traditional way of life and all that it offers.
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Siksika Health Facilities Maintenance Work Order Request Form
Leave a CommentFacilities Maintenance Work Order Request Form
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Siksika Health Participates in MRU’s Adaptive Physical Activity Symposium
Leave a CommentOn March 3 & 4, 2023, Mount Royal University hosts a weekend of learning, research, and connection. This multidisciplinary symposium aims to foster community and enhance inclusivity of physical activity and sport across the province, for all Albertans experiencing disability.
A Community Advisor for Calgary’s Adaptive Hub, Siksika Health Services’ Dr. Tyler White opened the symposium with a presentation about the significance of adaptive physical activity on Siksika Nation.
Dr. White shared that “Siksika people often communicate that individuals with unique needs are special gifts from Creator, and were historically referred to as Pissatsipokiaayawa, or ‘special children’. They express that these people are closer to Creator, as they are pure in spirit, and have unique skills to adapt and communicate with their families. Families and friends of our special children stress that a label of disability does not define a person, but rather, it focuses on a person’s strengths.”
There are no words for “disability” in the Blackfoot language, and quite often you’ll hear stories shared of people’s strengths who had a disability. The concept of inclusion has always existed in our Siksika way of life.
Adaptive Physical Activity aligns with this belief, and values every individual’s strengths and interests to match them with appropriate activities.
Through collaboration with like-minded and like-hearted partners, such as Dr. David Legg at MRU’s Department of Health and Physical Education, the Calgary Adaptive Hub, the Autism and Asperger Friendship Society, Lacrossing Barriers, our Siksika Health Mental Health & Wellness and Siksika Recreation departments, and many others, we have been able to start to bring adaptive physical activity to Siksika in a good way.
Initiatives like the Adaptive Physical Activity Symposium give opportunity for us all to show our support by honouring and celebrating peoples’ diversity through community consensus program development, spreading awareness, and promoting inclusion in sports.
Together, we strive for equity in health and wellness for all, and we demonstrate acceptance and inclusion in all aspects of life. Adaptive sports are sports, and all people matter.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 2023 Every Child Matters Hockey Game Announcement Press Conference
Leave a CommentMonday, January 9, 2023
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Calgary (Mohkinstsis), AB – On Wednesday, January 11, 2023, at 12:00pm, Calgary Hitmen Hockey Club and Siksika Health Services delegates will share the details of the 2023 Every Child Matters hockey game, which will take place on February 4, 2023. Media are invited to attend Wednesday’s press conference in person, as well as a special Blackfoot performance on-ice immediately thereafter.
The press conference and performance will honour the spirit and intent of the initiative, commemorate the significance of partnerships involved, and introduce the theme and connection to Siksika Nation.
WHO: Calgary Hitmen VP Mike Moore, and Siksika Health Services CEO Dr. Tyler White
WHAT: Every Child Matters hockey game press conference and Blackfoot performance
WHERE: Scotiabank Saddledome – Ed Whalen Media Lounge, Calgary AB
WHEN: 12:00pm Wednesday, January 11, 2023
This is the third annual Every Child Matters game presented by the Calgary Hitmen Hockey Club and Siksika Health Services, this year in partnership with presenting sponsors: Aboriginal Friendship Centre of Calgary, the Blackfoot Confederacy, First Nations Health Consortium, and Siksika Family Services.
The Every Child Matters game is part of a much larger movement of the same name, and is a recognition and commitment to action to ensure that all children know their importance, and to honour those who attended Residential Schools in Canada, their families, and communities.
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For information contact:
Cassandra Vilgrain
Communications Coordinator
(403) 921 7511
Ryan Running Rabbit
Communications, Siksika Health Services
(403) 361 0584
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Staying Healthy in Extreme Heat
Leave a CommentDuring periods of extreme heat, everyone is at an increased risk, including your pets. These conditions can increase heat related illness and increase the risk of fire and power outages.
We can all prepare for extreme heat by:
– Keep yourself hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids like water (about 1 cup for every 15-20 minutes that you’re in the heat). This the most important thing you can do to stay health and safe during a heat wave.
– Know the signs of heat stroke and heat exhaustion: feeling dizzy and light headed is a sign of heat stroke. Lack of sweating is also a sign of heat stroke, that could require a visit to the hospital.
– Limit exposure outdoors. Stock up on key supplies such as groceries, medications, and drinking water to avoid the need to take extra trips outside.
– Ensure you have extra cooling options by freezing ice or ice packs, and chill water in spray bottles so you can cool yourself down.
– Check that cooling appliances are in working order (fans, air conditioners) and have back-up options that don’t require power (i.e. cold washcloths).
– While its tempting to access public water ways such as the Bow River, please be mindful of the potential dangers of strong current, debris, and visibility as the spring runoff is still occurring.
Further tips can be found at alberta.ca/ExtremeHeat
For more information on weather conditions, visit the Environment Canada website or download the WeatherCan app to your smart phones or devices
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Every Child Matters Game – Special Features of a Significant Hockey Game
Leave a CommentToday’s press conference for the upcoming Every Child Matters hockey game revealed exciting and significant details about the event, and culminated in a special ceremony to honour Calgary Hitmen VP, Mike Moore, with a traditional Blackfoot name.
Details announced:
Phyllis Webstad, creator of Orange Shirt Day, to join as a guest of honour:
“Orange Shirt Day”, recognized annually on Sept. 30, was started by Phyllis Webstad as a local, grassroots initiative, and has since grown to international recognition. The day commemorates those who attended Residential Schools, and honours its survivors and families/communities.
Phyllis Webstad will attend the March 27 Every Child Matters game as an honoured guest, and she joined us virtually to share a message for today’s event. Watch/listen here:
Fan favourite “Farley the Fox” gets a new look:
“Sinopa” translates to “fox” in Blackfoot, the traditional language of the Siksika (Blackfoot) people. Farley’s new game day jersey features this Blackfoot name, and his game day beat will be courtesy of his new hand drum, made in the traditional Blackfoot way, and featuring Calgary Hitmen symbolism.
Siksika Health Services’ CEO, Dr. Tyler White, reinforced that sports mascots often have not represented Indigenous culture or people respectfully. But with Farley’s new look, the Blackfoot language and drum are represented in a good way, and help support awareness and education about Blackfoot culture.
Game day food options to include Blackfoot cuisine, language, dancing & music:
Local Siksika Nation chef, Chris Eagle Rib, will offer Blackfoot food options, from the special event ‘test kitchen’. Attendees are encouraged to get theirs quickly – these specialty items went fast at the last Every Child Matters game!
The game will be broadcast live in the Blackfoot language by Siksika Elders, Butch Wolf Leg, Eldon Weasel Child, and Vincent Yellow Old Woman on Windspeaker Radio (CFWE), and Siksika Nation’s local radio station: 104.7FM.
Immediately following today’s press conference event, Mike Moore, Calgary Hitmen VP and Alternative Governor was honoured in a special naming and face painting ceremony, conducted by Siksika Elder, Clement Leather. Traditional Blackfoot names hold great significance as identifiers and descriptors; the name selected for Mike Moore, Saapaatsiimaitapii (“SA-PA-TSEE-MAY-TA-PI”) translates to “caring, humble, and understanding: encompassing of all these things.”
The Every Child Matters game will take place at the Scotiabank Saddledome in Calgary, Alberta at 2:00pm on March 27, 2022 between Calgary Hitmen and Swift Current Broncos. Participants of all ages and backgrounds are encouraged to attend the event; tickets can be purchased on the Calgary Hitmen website. Siksika Nation members can get their tickets here.
This is the second annual Every Child Matters game presented by the Calgary Hitmen Hockey Club and Siksika Health Services, this year in partnership with the Aboriginal Friendship Centre of Calgary, Okaki Health Intelligence, and the Blackfoot Confederacy.
The Every Child Matters game is part of a much larger movement of the same name, and is a recognition and commitment to action to ensure that all children know their importance, and to honour those who attended Residential Schools in Canada, their families, and communities.
More photos from today’s press conference:
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Partnerships Bring Family-Friendly Pop-Up Vaccination Clinic to Calgary
Leave a CommentToday’s aisokinakio’p pop-up vaccination clinic at the Genesis Centre in Calgary is off to a great start! Calgarians are welcome to come on down TODAY to the Genesis Centre, located at #10 – 7555 Falconridge Blvd NE to get their COVID vaccines, flu shots, and/or pneumonia vaccines. The clinic will be open today until 7:00pm; a second clinic will be opened at Village Square Leisure Centre next Saturday, open from 10:30am-5:30pm.
The clinic is a partnership between aisokinakio’p (an Indigenous-led COVID-19 immunization clinic created by the Aboriginal Friendship Centre of Calgary, Siksika Health Services, and OKAKI Health Intelligence) and the City of Calgary. The clinic offers a safe and welcoming family-friendly environment, with the aim to help improve vaccination rates, especially among children. All are welcome, and translation supports are available.
Today’s clinic was started in ceremony, with Elders Ernie Poundmaker and Jackie Bromley providing prayers and leading a cleansing ceremony. Adrian Goulet offered a song to close the ceremony and seal the partnerships in a good way.
The pop-up clinic provides both Pfizer and Moderna COVID vaccines, in addition to influenza and pneumonia vaccinations. Pediatric vaccines for COVID-19 and influenza are also available. Next Saturday’s clinic at Village Square Leisure Centre will offer the same.
The pop-up clinics are offered with support from the Calgary Homeless Foundation and Alberta Health Services, with volunteers from Alberta International Medical Graduates Association (AIMGA) and ActionDignity, and include fun giveaways for the whole family. Our hope is that these clinics will be a way for the community to come together and connect in a mutual goal of strengthening the health of our communities.
Participants are asked to bring their ID, an Alberta Health Card is helpful if people have one, but it is not required.
Quotes from the Partners:
“Over the last year, aisokinakio’p’s Indigenous-led and culturally-sensitive approach has allowed us to vaccinate thousands of Calgarians, including Elders, refugees, and vulnerable community members. We are proud our innovative and welcoming approach can help protect even more Calgarians through these pop-up clinics.” ~ Shane Gauthier, CEO of the Aboriginal Friendship Centre of Calgary
“OKAKI is committed to supporting immunization programs in Alberta. It has been a privilege to collaborate with all our aisokinakio’p partners, including the City of Calgary, to reduce barriers and improve access to vaccination for individuals of all ages through these family friendly pop-up clinics.” ~ Dr. Salim Samanani, Medical Director, OKAKI.
“As a health services authority operating within a First Nations community, we are keenly aware of the significance of immunization, and the important role it can play in saving lives and protecting our most vulnerable populations. Equitable access to quality healthcare needs to be a top priority for all our communities, and the aisokinakio’p initiative, including these pop-up clinics in Mohkinstsis [Calgary], helps to ensure this equitable access for more people.” ~ Dr. Tyler White, Naa Taoyi Piita Wo Taan, CEO, Siksika Health Services
“So many organizations have come together to lift our community up and help remove barriers to vaccination by providing these easy-to-access pop-up clinics. The clinics will improve the health and well-being of our community. Our community has a big heart. Whenever we have asked for help, so many people have answered the call, and that includes you all here today. We have found new ways to work together. I feel like we are more integrated in our community than we’ve ever been. This puts us all in a better position to improve peoples’ lives and have profound impacts on our community now, and for generations.” ~ Katie Black, General Manager Community Services, City of Calgary
